Half Marathon and Marriage on the horizon for Blesma Member Russ Kirby

Blesma Member RUSS KIRBY IS PUTTING IN THE MILES to raise funds for Blesma and to get in shape for his wedding this summer. The former Royal Navy man is running the London Landmarks Half Marathon in April and is getting married to Sarah Deans, a former member of the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps, in June.

“I wanted to do something for Blesma, but I also need to get myself fit for the big day,” said Russ, 62, who served on HMS Antrim before a motorbike accident cut his military career short when he was just 20 years old.

"I’ve always run as an amateur but not so much recently, and my left arm is paralysed from the accident, but I’m going to run as much of the half marathon as possible."

Russ, from Barton-upon-Humber, who organises a branch of the Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club, added: “I was introduced to Blesma by Outreach Officer Adele Miller and have been on some activities and seen the great work it does, so I’m delighted to be running for the charity.”